California Horseshoes Legends and the Mark of Excellence
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Harlen Rippetoe
CA Legend, 2022
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Jesse Gonzales, Sr.
CA Legend, 2022
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Dave Nelson
CA Legend, 2024
California Horseshoe Legends
Harlen Rippetoe
Harlen Rippetoe is more than a name in horseshoes — he’s a California original and a true legend of the game. Known for his unwavering integrity, relentless work ethic, and passion for the sport, Harlen is the kind of person who leads by example. He doesn’t just talk about what needs to be done — he does it.
Whether it's running tournaments, maintaining courts, or mentoring others, Harlen shows up, rolls up his sleeves, and gets to work. He’s known for his honesty, his fairness, and always standing by his word. You might not always agree with him, but you’ll always respect him — because he tells the truth and lives by a code that never wavers.
A family tradition
Harlen’s journey in horseshoes began with his family. Alongside his brothers, Othal and Glen, Harlen competed across California and the country, building a reputation as both a fierce competitor and a class act. His wife Sharon and daughter Pricilla also played key roles, helping run tournaments and keeping score — it was always a family effort.
Service and sport
Outside the horseshoe pit, Harlen had a distinguished career in law enforcement. He competed in 30 consecutive Police & Fire Games, coordinating the events for the past 15 years. In 2008, he was inducted into the Police & Fire Games Hall of Fame, and in 2009, he won gold at the Games in Vancouver, Canada. He also claimed the title of 1996 International Police & Fire Games Champion.
Across the country, in both law enforcement and horseshoe circles, Harlen’s name carries weight. He’s respected nationwide for his contributions to both fields.
A champion on the courts
With over 100 medals to his name — including world and state championships — Harlen’s record speaks for itself. He’s competed at the highest levels for over 40 years and was inducted into the Northern California Horseshoe Hall of Fame, where he also served as club president. Alongside his brother Othal, Harlen left his mark on nearly every level of the sport.
Founder of “Horseshoe Heaven”
Harlen’s legacy may be most evident in Madera, California, where he founded the Big Valley Horseshoe Club, better known as the Madera Club. Under his leadership, the club has grown into one of the most respected and active horseshoe leagues in the nation.
With over 100 players pitching weekly for more than two decades, the Madera Club is unlike any other. Harlen designed the format of play, wrote the rules, and oversees league operations. He worked closely with the City of Madera to develop top-tier facilities — including some of the best court lighting in California.
League Night in Madera is more than just a competition — it’s a family-friendly tradition. People come to pitch, barbecue, relax, and enjoy the community Harlen built from the ground up.
Honored & respected
Harlen was awarded the California Bear for his outstanding contributions to horseshoes, both on and off the court. From promoting the sport to mentoring new players and leading by example, Harlen has shaped the game for generations to come.
He’s built a community where players from all backgrounds come together. He’s mentored countless individuals. And above all, he’s remained dedicated to doing things the right way — with integrity, consistency, and heart.
A lasting legacy
Harlen Rippetoe isn’t just a leader in horseshoes — he’s a builder of community, a mentor, a champion, and a man whose legacy will live on for generations.
Thank you, Harlen.
You are — and always will be —
A California Legend.
Jesse Gonzales, Sr.
In 2022, the San Luis Obispo community honored Jesse Gonzales Sr. with a special tournament celebrating his 90th birthday — held fittingly at the Jesse Gonzales Courts. This tribute recognized more than just a milestone birthday; it celebrated a true California Horseshoe Legend.
Presented with the prestigious California Horseshoes’ Bear Award by longtime friend Frank Arroyo, Jesse was recognized for a lifetime of remarkable achievements and unmatched dedication to the sport.
A career like no other
Jesse began his sanctioned pitching journey in 1962, joining the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association (NHPA). Over the past 60 years, he has competed in tournaments across the U.S. and earned his place in three Hall of Fames:
Southern California Horseshoe Hall of Fame
Northern California Horseshoe Hall of Fame
NHPA National Hall of Fame
Championship highlights
2008 California Elders Champion
1985 & 1978 California Men’s Champion
1978 Men’s Champion with an incredible 77.20% average and zero losses
Jesse also pitched in 12 World Tournaments at the highest competitive level, with an impressive career world tournament average of 75.32% and 163 wins. In one tournament, he took 7th place with a phenomenal 80.8% average — a feat few have matched.
Flip pitching pioneer
Jesse made his mark as a flip pitcher, a style often underestimated. While others claimed a flip style couldn't reach elite levels, Jesse proved them wrong — not with words, but with results. His unmatched consistency and competitive fire earned him respect as the gold standard for flip pitchers.
He showed that success in horseshoes comes not from style, but from heart, discipline, and dedication.
More than a champion
Jesse has long gone out of his way to help others — sharing tips, mentoring beginners, and encouraging seasoned pitchers alike. He was the “ultimate backyard pitcher” before it became a trend, always willing to play with anyone, no matter their experience level. For Jesse, it was always about the love of the game.
He also took pride in maintaining the San Luis Obispo courts, working with the city to ensure they stayed in pristine condition. Thanks to his efforts, the courts that now bear his name continue to thrive for future generations.
A trailblazer in the sport
As a Mexican American pitcher who started in the sport over 60 years ago, Jesse broke barriers. At a time when diversity was rare in the game — and flip pitching even rarer — he stood tall and let his performance speak for itself.
He formed lasting friendships with other legends of the sport, including the late Monte Latino (three-time world champion) and the Williams family, known for their own championship pedigree.
Family first
Through all the titles and tournaments, Jesse’s proudest accomplishment is his family. They’ve stood by him every step of the way — traveling to tournaments, cheering from the sidelines, and continuing the love of the sport.
Jesse Gonzales Sr.
A true legend, a fierce competitor, a mentor, and a trailblazer. Simply the best.
Dave Nelson
California Horseshoes proudly recognized Dave Nelson — also known as Dangerous Dave, Dave IE, Double D on the Mic, and The Dirt Master — for his unwavering dedication to the growth and promotion of the sport of horseshoes.
Double D on the Mic
In 2023, after years of determination and strategic negotiations, Dave Nelson made history by bringing backyard-style horseshoes to ESPN. With no backing organization, just pure drive and belief in the sport, Dave introduced horseshoe pitching to a global audience.
As "Double D on the Mic," he used his voice, passion, and deep knowledge of the game to showcase horseshoes to countless new fans — taking a bold leap to shine a spotlight on a game loved by so many. His leadership and willingness to push boundaries helped elevate the sport to unprecedented visibility.
Pushing the game forward
Nearly a decade ago, Dave began pitching with local crews in Southern California’s Inland Empire. While the sport had long-standing roots, Dave’s unique energy and vision helped elevate the game to new heights.
He was among the first to design custom jerseys for players — transforming casual attire into a sense of club identity and pride.
He launched Horseshoewars.com, a vital hub where players across Southern California can find tournaments and stay connected.
Dave was also a trailblazer in bringing Scoreholio to backyard horseshoe tournaments — revolutionizing how events are organized and tracked.
Leading by example
Dave’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the Southern California horseshoe scene:
He built and maintained a tournament schedule in the IE.
He created and distributed professional-quality event flyers through social media.
He frequently stepped up as Tournament Director, allowing others to simply enjoy the game.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dave went live on the mic to keep the community connected — spotlighting events and celebrating the fun side of pitching.
He designed and donated custom awards, helping clubs cut costs while raising the level of professionalism in the sport.
Through social media, Dave has continuously promoted players, venues, strategies, playoff games, and championship matches.
Dave, the Weekend Warriors, and California Horseshoes have created the legendary California Classic Tournament.
A bold visionary
Dave Nelson is more than a promoter — he’s a showman, a strategist, and a community leader. Yes, he might slide his shoes on purpose, but make no mistake — he can pitch with the best of them, and his high-flying shoes are a thing of beauty.
His fearless approach and willingness to take risks have helped preserve and grow the sport of horseshoes — all while running his own business and raising two young children alongside his wife.
Innovation and drive
Dave Nelson is dynamic and and has created a lasting impact on the sport. He continues to use the latest technology to showcase horseshoe pitching. He now joins the ranks of esteemed legends Jesse Gonzales and Harlen Rippetoe.
Congratulations, Dave — a true California Horseshoe Legend.
The Mark of Excellence
Monte Latino
1916-2007
Monte Latino of California was a true multi-sport athlete and a fierce competitor, excelling in soccer, baseball & softball, and horseshoes. His extraordinary accomplishments earned him induction into four Hall of Fames—each recognizing his unmatched drive, skill, and passion for competition.
In the sport of horseshoes, Monte reached the pinnacle of success, winning three World Championships during an era when competition was intense and talent was abundant. His consistency and precision made him a feared and respected presence on the court. He began pitching in his early fifties.
Monte regularly pitched in the 60%, 70% and 80% range in tournament play, and was known for delivering exceptional performances in the 80% range for individual games. He consistently competed observing the standard 40-foot foul line, believing firmly in honoring the integrity and tradition of the game. Though eligible to move up to the 30-foot foul line, he chose to retire from the sport and began a new journey mentoring and supporting other pitchers. For Monte, honoring the purity of the sport mattered more than gaining any advantage.
His guidance helped many develop the skill and mindset required to succeed—including his protégé, Rick Bermingham.
Rick, who was guided under Monte, is now a seven-time California State Champion at the highest level. Watching Rick pitch, one sees Monte’s signature style live on—smooth, high-flying shoes delivered with unwavering accuracy. Monte would undoubtedly be proud to see his influence passed on to the next generation of champions and would have loved to see his son Tom pitch.
Monte was a devout Catholic and World War 2 veteran. He was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. His family was the heart of his life, and his wife, Mildred, was his steadfast supporter and inspiration. The caliber of his skill, sportsmanship, and his drive to succeed were some of the traits that this incredible man possessed.
Pitching Highlights
1970: Qualified for the World Tournament’s Championship Class. Pitched a 62% with a high game of 86.4%. This was an era when pitchers had to qualify to be allowed to participate at the World Tournament.
1973: Pitched a 68.5% tournament average, winning 13 games at the World Tournament. Notably defeated 10-time World Champion Ted Allen with a 77.8% game—using Allen’s own brand of horseshoes.
1973 & 1975: Named NCHPA Pitcher of the Year.
1974: Named NCHPA Most Consistent Pitcher
1975: Won the NCHPA Championship.
1975: Inducted into the NCHPA Hall of Fame.
1979: Captured the NCHPA Senior Championship, going undefeated with a 70.8% average—still observing the 40-foot foul line.
1980–1982: Won the World Tournament’s Intermediate Championship Division three consecutive years, while observing the 40-foot foul line.
2025: Inducted into the National Horseshoe Pitchers Hall of Fame.
Monte Latino’s contributions to the sport remain enduring and inspirational. His influence continues to live on through the players he mentored and the standards he set. Monte’s values, sportsmanship, and unwavering commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact. Monte Latino is the Mark of Excellence for California Horseshoes.
“ No one could turn a shoe like Monte. He battled the best in the world and knocked out 3 World Championships. I was blessed to learn from him.”